Gerald Johnson

Gerald Johnson, of Swansea, IL, passed away on November 26, 2018.  He was born on December 4, 1935 in East St. Louis, IL.  He was a very proud son of his hometown and his heart remained there throughout his life.  He attended Holy Angels Grade School, Central Catholic High School and was a member of the first graduating class of Assumption High School in 1954.  Gerald joined the Illinois State Police in 1957.

He spent many years as a State Trooper and Detective, eventually becoming a key member of the Gang Crimes Unit focusing on eliminating gang crime in the Metro-East Area.  After retiring from the State Police in 1987, he joined the U.S. Attorney’s office, serving in the role as Law Enforcement Coordinator until 1999.  He absolutely loved working in law enforcement and Southern Illinois benefitted greatly from his service.

On June 1, 1957, he married Nancy Pauline Schnyder and they enjoyed 61 years together.  He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and enjoyed traveling in his retirement.  At 78 years old he fulfilled his bucket list item when he went zip-lining in Costa Rica.  He was active in the Ancient Order of Hibernians and seemed to become more Irish with each passing year.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Gish Arthur and Helen Marie Johnson, and a brother, Gish A. Johnson, Jr.

Gerald is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy and their two children, Gerald (Carol) Johnson and Janice (Bert) Castro; his four grandchildren, Cassie (Gerard) Richards, Kyle Castro, Caitlin Castro and Kamryn Castro; one great-grandchild, Roman Richards, as well as a sister-in-law, Lucia Johnson; a brother and sister-in-law, William and Patricia Schnyder; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 2, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL

Ancient Order of Hibernians Service will be held on Sunday, December 2, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, December 3, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL. with Fr. Leo Hayes officiating.

Interment will be in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

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